The basis of Buddhist belief is the teachings of the Buddha known as the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path.

The Four Noble Truths

1. The truth of suffering
2. The truth of the cause of suffering
3. The truth of the cessation of suffering
4. The truth of the path to the cessation of suffering, which is known as "The Eightfold Path".

The first two noble truths present the way in which sentient beings migrate into samsara (cycle of rebirth and suffering).

First Noble Truth - The Truth of Suffering

The first truth defines suffering, i.e. suffering exists.

Second Noble Truth - The Origins of Suffering

The second truth explains the cause of suffering. Suffering is due to the three poisons:

1. hatred/aversion;
2. attachment/desire;
3. ignorance of cause and effect (karma).

These may lead to negative action (karma) which results in rebirth.

Karma can be classified into 3 actions (body, speech and mind) and types according to quality of action (virtuous, non-virtuous and neutral).

Action: Physical Actions (Body)

Non-Virtuous
1. Killing
2. Stealing
3. Sexual Misconduct

Action: Verbal Actions (Speech)

Non-Virtuous
4. Lying
5. Divisive talk
6. Using harsh words
7. Idle gossip

Action: Mental Actions (Mind)

Non-Virtuous
8. Engaging the mind in objects of attachment
9. Engaging in thoughts of harming others
10. Wrong views